Polar Bear Plunge raises money for special Olympics, fire departments

GORDONVILLE, TX -- Around 30 people jumped into Lake Texoma Saturday for the Polar Bear Plunge.

Linda Mayo, event coordinator, said it benefits the West Grayson County Special Olympics and the fire departments of Sherwood Shores, Gordonville and Sadler.

"To be able to help out all of those organizations that the funds are limited. Especially the fire departments, the funds are limited with those guys," she said. "And it's just to help all of them out."

It's the eighth time Cedar Mills has hosted the event.

The day started with a 5K run, and continued with games for the kids and contests for prizes.

"Bounce houses, train rides, football throws, all kinds of things going on for the kids this afternoon," Mayo said.

But the main event was the plunge.

We caught up with jumpers as they emerged from the water - teeth still chattering.

"Freezing, felt like the world was ending," Tim Southwell said. "It was nice and brisk"

For Southwell and his wife Steph, it was their first time jumping.

"Our friends Claire and Dave are here somewhere, and they got us involved," he said.

T.J. Webster said it wasn't what he was expecting.

"No. Colder," he said.

Kathy Rascheke said it was her first time, but she'd do it again.

"It's a good cause, raising the money for the Special Olympics, and for the volunteer firemen," she said.

Mayo said the plunge is her favorite part.

"To see the look on everybody's faces. And hear them hollering. The actual plunge is great," she said.

The event also included a dinner and auctions Saturday night. Mayo said they expect to surpass last year's fund raising total of $20,000.

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